This post is overdue by about 5 months, but shortly after our fabulous night here for our anniversary, we found out we were expecting. And because of my cocktail cravings, I’ve postponed this long. But I only have 3 months left to go, and the first chance we get to hire a babysitter, our date night will be here to celebrate.

The Columbia Room is an absolute DC must for visitors and locals alike. I have to say, I’m impressed; DC is really knocking it out of the park in the cocktail lounge department. [The Gibson is amazing too.] The Columbia Room is just that… a room that’s tucked away at the back of the Passenger. With reservation-only seating for about 10 at the bar, it’s super intimate and you get a front row seat to see the talented mixologists in action. These guys know what they’re doing and if you ask, you will even get the history behind each concoction. It’s truly a treat to see the unique spirits, methods, time, and skill that go into achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

For $64 a person, three drinks and a small plate are included. The first two are seasonal and the third is a custom drink crafted based on your preferences. I asked for a bourbon cocktail and was presented with a Lion’s Tail. Nothing short of mind-blowing. You can find Derek Brown’s [the genius behind the Columbia Room] recipe here in the Atlantic. Also check out his features in Esquire and the WSJ.

A swanky speakeasy in the U Street ‘hood that requires me to hunt up and down 14th for an unmarked door? Say no more. Upon ringing the inconspicuous doorbell, we were led through a dimly lit lounge area, seated, and served the most complex, incredibly well-crafted concoctions I’ve ever had. While I like flirtinis as much as the next girl, there’s nothing remotely close on the menu. But unique and top quality ingredients are expertly combined into beverages with multiple layers and presented in style [our friend's order called for a citrus rind to be scorched by the server right at our table]. With an excellent and well-executed design concept, knowledgeable staff, and great music, this place is dressed to impress – from head to toe.

[where it is:]U Street Corridor, DC[meal:] late night drinks and appetizers[what I ate/drank:] La Belle et La Bête and a chocolately drink that our server recommended – I wish I had gotten the name. Andrew had The Rabbit Hole. Starved, we ordered almost everything on the small plates menu – potatoes and pancetta, pasta du jour, and the ricotta fritters. We loved everything.[the damage:] $10-$15 for cocktails, $7-$10 for small plates (they really are small and there are only about 5 options on the menu, but they are good)[other stuff:] Reservations a couple days ahead of time are strongly recommended. The well-spaced, but intimate seating is ideal for dates or nights out with good friends.